Meet Cristina Ortiz

Cristina, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have been a practicing attorney for 11 years (time flies!). I always knew I wanted to attend law school because I was always very interested in the different perspectives an argument could take. I really dove into the notion that one situation could be presented in various ways, depending on your point of you. Plus, I was really bad at math and I decided to pursue a career where I thought I would never have to deal with numbers. I graduated from law school in 2008 – in the middle of the economic crisis. At the time, I worked for a criminal attorney who had to lay off all of his associates. I immediately got hired by a foreclosure and bankruptcy firm. The movie “The Big Short” is a perfect example of the type of cases that I was dealing with. That movie is déjà vu for me.

When the market got healthier and I felt confident enough, I decided to take the risk of opening up my own firm. I have had my own law firm since January 2014. The first year was all about learning and getting close to mentors. After two years, I had a steady stream of business. I realized a few years into my business that I had to focus on my personal relationships with my referral sources. There was a lot of trial and error. One thing I did know- I never wanted to grow too fast or too big. I really respect small businesses and I wanted to run my business like a family. I wanted my clients to trust me and feel like I provided peace of mind. I’m almost six years out on my own and I am confident that I have reached that goal. My plan is to continue creating long-lasting relationships with my referral sources and my clients while becoming more efficient.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely has not been smooth, but my obstacles and challenges have been a source of education for me. Of course, while you are dealing head-on with the obstacle, it is stressful. However, I have become really good at seeing every challenge as an opportunity for growth. I know it sounds cheesy, but whenever I am hit with a stressful situation, I immediately try to look at what the lesson is. I intend to keep practicing that.

Specifically, here in South Florida, the real estate market has a reputation for being a bit shallow. I have worked really hard to separate myself from those types of law firms and companies. The good news is that I feel that people are starting to shift their mindset and prioritize good work ethic and loyalty.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am an attorney-owned title company. I handle every phase from negotiating the purchase contract to closing day. I handle residential and commercial transactions. I can represent the buyer and the seller, or each individually. I make sure that when you’re buying a property, you’re buying clear title to a property. I have carved out a niche for myself in servicing foreign buyers and sellers. I do a lot of traveling to visit clients and meet potential business partners. I love to travel so I really appreciate that my job has been able to satisfy that.

I was most recently recognized by my colleagues for being a rising star in the legal field in Florida. I really appreciate this type of award because it is based on my colleague’s votes. I feel like I am respected by my peers which I believe is very important.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I always felt that it was my job to be a good kid, get good grades and do “what I was supposed to”. I always wanted to make sure that my mom and dad were proud of me. As I got older, I started to face obstacles that are natural when growing up. I was a serious kid but I loved dancing, cheerleading, and gymnastics. It made me really happy. The discipline that I learned in gymnastics and cheerleading really gave me the foundation for my education and future career. Thankfully, my parents encouraged me to travel early on. For my 15th birthday, they sent me to Italy with a friend and her family. It really opened my eyes to the opportunities that traveling could bring. That really opened up my appetite. I haven’t stopped wanting to meet new people and learn about other cultures.

I also have the best parents and grandparents in the world who showed me how important it was and is to work hard and always prioritize family.

Contact Info:

• Email: Cristina@cmolawpa.com
• Instagram: Cristinamortiz_attorney
• Facebook: Law Office of Cristina M Ortiz
• Youtube: Cristina M Ortiz Esq.
• Website: Cristinamortiz.com